Recently, Anup Soni took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, at an event announcing the 25th edition of Khazana-A Festival of Ghazals. Recalling his days as a student, he said, “Kabhi socha nahi tha ki National School of Drama ke hostel mein tape recorder par Pankaj Ji ki ghazalein suntein suntein, yahan aane ka mauka mil jayega. Bahut der se juda hoon, pacheeswe saal mein juda hoon, but kehtein hain na, der aaye, durust aaye. Now that I have joined Khazana in its 25th year, ab 50th tak toh jaunga hi shayad. Mera subhagya hai main yahan hoon, great legends ke company mein, and I hope ki main har saal yahan aata rahoon.”Describing his association as more than just a professional engagement, Anup said the festival represents a celebration of music intertwined with compassion and humanity.“Being part of Khazana’s Silver Jubilee feels like celebrating not just music, but a 25-year legacy of compassion, hope and humanity that Pankaj Udhas ji so beautifully envisioned,” he said.Anup, who will host the Silver Jubilee edition of the festival, said he is looking forward to sharing the stage with some of India’s most celebrated musicians. “It is a privilege for me to host the evening. This is my first time being part of this iconic ghazal festival, and I am truly looking forward to sharing the stage with some of our greatest musical legends,” he said.Paying tribute to the late ghazal maestro and founder of the festival, Anup said he had long admired Pankaj Udhas not only for his musical brilliance but also for his vision of using music as a force for social good. “I have always admired Pankaj Udhas ji, not only for his extraordinary contribution to music but also for the vision with which he created Khazana. For 25 years, this festival has shown how music can bring people together for a meaningful cause by supporting cancer and thalassemia patients. I am honoured to play a small part in celebrating this remarkable legacy,” he said. The two-day ghazal festival will be held on July 24-25.
